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How can you care for nausea and vomiting in your child age 4 years or older?
- Watch for and treat signs of dehydration, which means that the body has lost too much water. Your child's mouth may feel very dry. He or she may have sunken eyes with few tears when crying. Your child may lack energy and want to be held a lot. He or she may not urinate as often as usual.
- Offer your child small sips of water. Let your child drink as much as he or she wants.
- Ask your doctor if you need to use an oral rehydration solution (ORS) such as Pedialyte or Infalyte. These drinks contain a mix of salt, sugar, and minerals. You can buy them at drugstores or grocery stores. Avoid orange juice, grapefruit juice, tomato juice, and lemonade.
- Have your child rest in bed until he or she feels better.
- When your child is feeling better, offer the type of food he or she usually eats.
Nausea and vomiting: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have symptoms of dehydration, such as:
- Dry eyes and a dry mouth.
- Passing only a little urine.
- Feeling thirstier than usual.
- You have new or worsening belly pain.
- You have a new or higher fever.
- You vomit blood or what looks like coffee grounds.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You have ongoing nausea and vomiting.
- Your vomiting is getting worse.
- Your vomiting lasts longer than 2 days.
- You are not getting better as expected.
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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.